Sicilian Christmas Pizza (Sfincione)

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Sicilian Christmas Pizza (Sfincione).

1. Step 1

   Begin by pouring warm water into the bowl of a stand mixer equipped with a dough hook.

2. Step 2

   Sprinkle yeast over the water and allow it to bloom for about five minutes until it becomes frothy.

3. Step 3

   Next, add kosher salt, sugar, olive oil, and flour to the bowl.

4. Step 4

   Knead the mixture on medium speed for six to seven minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the dough transforms into a very elastic and sticky consistency.

5. Step 5

   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot until it doubles in size, which should take around 90 minutes.

6. Step 6

   While the dough is rising, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

7. Step 7

   Add sliced onions along with a pinch of salt, sautéing for six to seven minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.

8. Step 8

   Stir in red pepper flakes, black pepper, tomato paste, oregano, and anchovies, mixing until the anchovies dissolve.

9. Step 9

   Pour in the marinara sauce, rinsing the container with a splash of water to capture every bit of sauce, and stir well.

10. Step 10

    Allow the mixture to simmer on medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.

11. Step 11

    As the dough rises and the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

12. Step 12

    In a separate bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Pecorino Romano cheese, tossing them with a fork.

13. Step 13

    Add the reserved anchovy oil and two tablespoons of olive oil, mixing until the breadcrumbs are nicely moistened.

14. Step 14

    Generously coat a rimmed 13x18-inch sheet pan with up to three tablespoons of olive oil.

15. Step 15

    Oil your hands and gently turn the dough out onto the pan, stretching and pressing it to fit.

16. Step 16

    If the dough shrinks back, let it rest for a moment.

17. Step 17

    Spread the sauce over the dough, leaving about half an inch from the edges.

18. Step 18

    Layer mozzarella and provolone cheeses on top, then evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture without pressing it down.

19. Step 19

    Drizzle any remaining olive oil over the entire surface.

20. Step 20

    Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 35 minutes, or until the pizza is beautifully browned and the bottom is cooked through.

21. Step 21

    Keep an eye on the breadcrumbs to prevent burning while ensuring the crust is perfectly baked.

22. Step 22

    Once your pizza is out of the oven, slide it onto a cooling rack to avoid a soggy bottom.

23. Step 23

    Allow it to cool slightly before transferring it to a cutting board for slicing.

24. Step 24

    Enjoy the delightful aroma and the satisfying crunch of your homemade pizza!.